It was a formal ocassion. Sharp suits and fancy dresses surrounded me as I entered the ballroom. The first step I took in this place, I would be at the mercy of the guests. I checked my hair and took a deep breath. This was my first royal ball, and I had not worn a fancy dress since my mother and father were alive.
The announcer stood in front of me, looking confused. He had just introduced a princess from the neighoring kingdom, and motioned for an escort to lead her to the long line of women, waiting to dance with the prince. A giant clock towered above the King and Queen and chimed eleven o clock. I had an hour. Even with the fancy dress, I didn't feel like I belonged. If anyone recognized me, I would be locked away for the rest of my life.
"Young lady." The announcer said as he offered his hand. "May I announce you?"
I had to think, and fast. My real name was not an option. I tried a different approach.
"That isn't necessary." I said with my best smile. "I'm not accustomed to being announced."
It wasn't a lie. If he knew who I was I would be dragged away.
"Very well then, I wouldn't want to trouble you."
An escort walked up and took my hand.
"This way please."
I was headed directly for the line! I couldn't go there. My sisters were only two people in front of me.
"Please sir. May I have some water?" I asked before we got closer.
"Water?" He asked with a laugh. "My lady, only the finest refreshments in the kingdom are offered tonight. And you want water?"
"Refreshments then, may I?" I looked around.
"Of course. The prince is not ready to dance at the moment, so there is no hurry."
I curstied and made my way to the table. A tall, well dressed gentleman was standing by the punch bowl and scowling. As I poured a glass of punch he spoke to me.
"Disgusting isn't it?" he asked.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
I looked around expecting bugs or mice. My sisters always screamed at the sight of them.
"This so called royal ball." he answered. "It's all a ploy to make the prince wed."
"I didn't know that." I said.
"You should." he answered, "It was on the invitation."
"I wasn't allowed to read it." I said.
"Truthfully?" he asked.
"Truthfully." I answered.
"That is strange." The gentleman took a sip and looked around. "Then why did you come here?"
"To be free." I smiled. "Even if it's just for one night."
"You have an interesting view of freedom. I wonder if you have an intetesting name."
I panicked. I only had until midnight, I couldn't reveal who I was to anyone.
"I'm afraid not." I laughed, "My name is probably the most dull and uninteresting name in the world.
"Well then" He bowed. "I'm going to ask you a question that I've asked many ladies tonight that I previously dreaded. Would you care to dance?"
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